The GM LZX is a 1,364 cc, inline-three turbocharged gasoline engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and a twin-scroll turbocharger delivering responsive power output. High-pressure direct injection enables efficient combustion with strong low-RPM torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Cruze, Opel Astra K, and Vauxhall Insignia, the LZX was engineered for compact and mid-size vehicles requiring fuel economy and urban agility. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing full Euro 6 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to port fuel injection absence, leading to rough idle and misfires. This issue, highlighted in GM Service Information Bulletin SI-19874, is caused by oil vapor deposition from the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system. GM introduced revised PCV routing and recommended more frequent induction cleaning intervals starting in 2017.
Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The GM LZX is a 1,364 cc, inline-three turbocharged gasoline engine engineered for compact and mid-size vehicles (2016-2020). It combines direct fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive acceleration and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,364 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with twin-scroll turbocharger | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–125 kW (140–170 PS) | |
| Torque | 200–230 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbocharger (Mitsubishi TD04) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The direct-injection system provides excellent throttle response and efficiency but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using GM dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. Oil contamination from PCV vapors accelerates deposit formation, necessitating periodic induction cleaning. Use of premium-grade fuel with detergent additives is recommended. The twin-scroll turbocharger demands clean oil flow—failure to maintain proper oil changes risks bearing wear. Valve cover gasket leaks are occasionally reported post-100,000 km and should be inspected during maintenance.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) specification (GM SIB SI-19874). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 125 kW output requires fuel meeting EN 228 standards (GM TIS Doc. G-1364-05).
GM Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G-1364-01, G-1364-02, G-1364-05, SI-19874
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM LZX was used across GM's Cruze/Astra K platforms with transverse mounting and licensed to Holden for Australian-market applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the Astra K and recalibrated ECU maps in the Cruze-and from 2017 the facelifted Astra K adopted the updated LZX-TU variant with improved PCV routing, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Holden's Trax and Barina to utilize this engine family. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the water pump (GM TIS G-1364-01). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('L' for LNS series). Post-2016 units feature black anodized aluminum valve covers. Critical differentiation from similar engines: LZX uses Bosch HDP6 injectors with unique connector shape and has a distinct twin-scroll turbo housing with dual exhaust inlets. Service parts require production date verification - PCV modules for pre-2017 engines are incompatible with post-facelift units due to revised internal baffling (GM SIB SI-19874).
The LZX's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal GM data from 2018 reported over 30% of pre-2017 engines developing significant deposits before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records link nearly 15% of MOT failures to misfire codes from EGR and valve fouling. Frequent cold starts and extended idling accelerate oil vapor deposition, making oil quality and induction cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2016-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LZX.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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